Catherine, Princess of Wales, announced on Friday, March 22, that she was diagnosed with an undisclosed cancer after months of speculation and silence.
The announcement was made in a recorded video released by Kensington Palace, the official residence of her husband, Prince William.
"William and I have been doing everything we can to process and manage this privately for the sake of our young family," she said. "As you can imagine, this has taken time. It has taken me time to recover from major surgery in order to start my treatment."
"But most importantly, it has taken us time to explain everything to George, Charlotte and Louis in a way that's appropriate for them and to reassure them that I'm going to be okay," she added.
In response to the announcement, several members of the British Royal Family, including King Charles III and Harry and Meghan, led the world in sending their well wishes to Kate.
William is destined to succeed Charles in the British throne. With his wife's cancer diagnosis announced after that of his father, the pressure for the Prince of Wales to put on a brave face has escalated significantly.
It was previously reported that royal insiders speculated that Catherine was set to reveal her medical condition to the public.
James Middleton Wishes Big Sister Kate Well
It was previously reported that Prince William's in-laws, the Middleton family, were in Windsor to support him in caring for his wife and their children, Prince George, Princess Charlotte, and Prince Louis.
OK! revealed that Catherine's mother, Carole Middleton, has been by her side while she recovered from her surgery.
"I'm sure Kate has been hugely thankful that her parents live nearby," former BBC royal correspondent Jennie Bond told the magazine news site. "It doesn't matter who you are, when your health breaks down, there is no one quite like your mom to help you feel better."
Meanwhile, Catherine's younger brother, James, posted a photo on Instagram as the announcement of her cancer diagnosis was made.
"Over the years, we have climbed many mountains together," his caption read. "As a family, we will climb this one with you too."
Other World Reactions
As the world knew of Catherine's cancer diagnosis, both major parties of the British parliament led world leaders and other famous people in sending their well wishes.
British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak commended Kate's "tremendous bravery," requesting the public on X, formerly Twitter, to allow her "the privacy to focus on her treatment and be with her loving family."
The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country. pic.twitter.com/IFX51Wm5Q3
— Rishi Sunak (@RishiSunak) March 22, 2024
"The Princess of Wales has the love and support of the whole country," he said.
British Opposition Leader Sir Keir Starmer also wished Catherine, 42, well in her treatment, concurring with Sunak that her family was "entitled to privacy" about how to deal with the announcement.
On behalf of the whole Labour Party, I want to send my very best wishes to Her Royal Highness at this distressing time.
— Keir Starmer (@Keir_Starmer) March 22, 2024
Our thoughts are with the whole Royal Family as they come to terms with the news and as they support The Princess of Wales through her treatment and recovery. pic.twitter.com/SiScvfhe8O
"On behalf of the Labour Party, I want to send my very best wishes to Her Royal Highness at this distressing time," his statement read on X. "Any cancer diagnosis is shocking. But I can only imagine the added stress of receiving that news amid the lurid speculation we've seen in recent weeks."
White House Press Secretary Karine Jean-Pierre also told reporters that the Biden administration's "thoughts are with [Catherine] ... during this incredibly difficult time" and stressed that the public should "respect her privacy."
The late US Senator John McCain's daughter, Meghan, also said the American people wished to send Kate and the rest of the House of Windsor "strength and support during this challenging time."
"Princess Kate has always been the epitome of class and grace - never more so than now," she added.
Meanwhile, Republican presidential nominee Donald Trump's daughter Ivanka shared on social media that she was "deeply saddened" by Catherine's cancer diagnosis.
I am deeply saddened to hear about Princess Kate's diagnosis. Amidst the trials she faces, her strength and grace continue to shine brightly. It's disheartening to see the speculation that has surrounded her, particularly during a time when support and kindness are most needed.… https://t.co/MvLhAABLZA
— Ivanka Trump (@IvankaTrump) March 22, 2024
"Amidst the trials she faces, her strength and grace continue to shine brightly," the former president's daughter added. "It's disheartening to see the speculation that has surrounded her, particularly during a time when support and kindness are most needed."
